The Short Inca Trail 1 Day is the perfect express adventure version of the famous Classic Inca Trail, designed for those who want to experience the magic of this ancient path without spending multiple days trekking. Starting at KM 104, this 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable journey through lush cloud forests, archaeological wonders like Wiñay Wayna, and a dramatic entrance to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
This one-day trek to Machu Picchu is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a genuine Inca Trail experience. The route is moderately challenging but incredibly rewarding—mixing natural beauty, rich history, and one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations in a single, action-packed day.
The Inca Trail 1 Day is your perfect shortcut to one of the world’s most iconic hikes. Starting at KM 104, this express version of the Classic Trail takes you through breathtaking scenery, fascinating Inca sites like Wiñay Wayna, and finishes with a jaw-dropping arrival at Machu Picchu via the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — all in just one day! It’s the best option for active travelers who want to experience the magic of the trail without camping.
👉 Want the full legendary experience? Choose the Inca Trail 4 Days and hike the complete original route with overnight camps, more ruins, and deeper connection to Inca history.
The Inca Trail 1 Day to Machu Picchu is the perfect adventure for travelers with limited time who still want to experience one of the most legendary hikes in the world. This short version of the Classic Inca Trail starts at KM 104 and takes you through stunning cloud forests, ancient ruins like Wiñay Wayna, and ends with a spectacular entrance to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — all in a single, unforgettable day.
This hike combines breathtaking scenery, rich Inca history, and expert guidance from the Tunqui Expeditions team. Unlike the longer version, there’s no camping — making it an ideal choice for those looking for a rewarding, one-day hike to Machu Picchu with all the comforts included. Whether you’re short on time or simply prefer a faster-paced journey, the 1 Day Inca Trail is a unique way to experience the magic of the Andes and the ancient Inca civilization.
Your adventure begins before sunrise, with a hotel pickup in Cusco and a scenic drive to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board one of the first trains bound for KM 104 — the official start of your 1 Day Inca Trail hike. As you step onto this ancient path, you’ll feel the spirit of the Incas and the thrill of walking where history lives.
The trail leads you through lush cloud forest, past waterfalls, and to one of the most remarkable archaeological sites on the route: Wiñay Wayna. Here, amidst breathtaking views and centuries-old terraces, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared lunch by our professional chef, exclusive to Tunqui Expeditions. This gourmet stop in nature adds comfort and flavor to your once-in-a-lifetime experience.
After lunch, you’ll continue the ascent toward the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, framed by afternoon light and surrounding peaks. It’s a moment that will stay with you forever.
Upon arrival at the citadel, you’ll follow Circuit 1, offering a guided tour through the most photogenic and historic parts of Machu Picchu, including temples, terraces, and sacred stonework.
As the day winds down, take a short bus ride to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll relax before boarding your train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to Cusco. Arrival is expected around 9:30 PM, bringing a perfect end to a powerful day of discovery.
Don’t miss your chance to walk part of the legendary Inca Trail in just one day!
Book your Inca Trail 1 Day tour with Tunqui Expeditions and create memories that last forever. Limited permits available – reserve your spot now!
Begin your adventure with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 am. From there, we drive to Ollantaytambo to board the Expedition train to KM 104, the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail.
The hike begins at Chachabamba, an Inca archaeological site nestled in the cloud forest. Continue along the ancient trail to reach the impressive ruins of Wiñay Wayna, where you’ll stop to enjoy a scenic picnic lunch.
As you approach Inti Punku (Sun Gate), you’ll be rewarded with your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, just as the Incas once experienced it. Upon arrival, explore the citadel via Circuit 1, ideal for breathtaking vistas and photographs.
After the guided visit, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll board the return train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer back to your hotel in Cusco. Arrival time is approximately 9:30 pm.
The Inca Trail is part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the ancient Andean road network, and lies within the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, a protected natural and cultural reserve managed by SERNANP. Trekking this trail means stepping into a world of archaeological richness and ecological diversity.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we promote sustainable tourism and follow all conservation guidelines established for this UNESCO World Heritage site. As you hike, your guide will share the stories, culture, and natural significance of this sacred landscape, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru to be as memorable and stress-free as possible. Here you’ll find answers to all your most common questions in one place. Please read the following information carefully—it will help you understand our services better and ensure a smooth experience.
Have a question we haven’t answered here?
Feel free to contact us, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
It’s very important to be well-acclimatized to the altitude before starting any trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your trek begins to allow your body to adjust and avoid altitude sickness.
If you’ve already been to another high-altitude area in Peru before Cusco, we still suggest spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recover from travel, and enjoy the sights before starting your trek.
Suggested activities before your trek:
All pre-trek briefings are held at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 5:00 PM the night before your trek. The briefing lasts approximately 30–45 minutes.
If you can’t attend, please coordinate another time via email, phone, or by visiting our office.
If you have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least 2 days before your trek. Otherwise, your reservation may not be confirmed.
We greatly appreciate if you can pay the balance in cash (USD or Peruvian soles) at our Cusco office. ATMs along Avenida El Sol dispense both currencies. You can also pay via credit/debit card or PayPal (online or in person), but note that a 5% service fee applies via Niubiz or PayPal.
We do not accept checks or traveler’s checks.
You’ll receive a duffel bag during your pre-trek briefing. Porters will carry it along the trail and deliver it to your camp.
Size: 60 x 24 x 22 cm / 23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in
Maximum weight: 7 kg / 15.4 lbs, including sleeping bag, pad, clothing, and personal items.
Absolutely!
You can store your main luggage safely at our office or your hotel (most hotels offer luggage storage) at no additional cost.
However, please do not store valuables in your suitcase. Keep items like credit cards, electronics, and passports in your hotel safe. Request a detailed receipt, as insurance companies may require proof of value in case of loss.
For added security, seal valuables (like credit cards) in a signed envelope before storing them.
Tunqui Expeditions offers hotel pick-up within the Historic Center of Cusco.
Your guide will confirm your pick-up time during the briefing. Please note that pick-up time may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.
Cusco is a historic city with narrow, cobblestone streets. Some hotels or Airbnbs are located on steep hills or pedestrian-only streets, which may make luggage transfers difficult.
We highly recommend choosing accommodation with easy vehicle access.
Group tours bring together people from different backgrounds, ages, and fitness levels.
By joining a group, you agree that some hikers may be faster or slower than others, and everyone is encouraged to hike at their own pace.
If the group wishes to modify the itinerary, the guide will decide, in consultation with the group, whether the change is feasible.
The return from Machu Picchu requires some logistics, but don’t worry—we handle everything!
Strikes and protests are relatively common in Peru and may disrupt transportation or tours.
Roads and train tracks can be blocked. We always try to maintain your itinerary as planned, even if it means departing the night before.
In extreme cases, tours may be canceled. If changes or cancellations are necessary, our Operations Team will coordinate with you directly.
Your safety is our top priority, and we will make decisions accordingly.
Please take care of your belongings during the trip.
You are responsible for your personal items at all times—whether in transport, tents, or restaurants.
Double-check your space before leaving any area to ensure you haven’t left anything behind.
Here’s a complete list of what to bring for your 1-day Inca Trail adventure. Keep in mind that weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for both sun and rain, cold and heat.
Available year-round, from January to December
We operate this itinerary every day of the week, all year long. This is a guaranteed small-group tour with departures starting from only 2 people.
Note: PayPal charges a 5% transaction fee that clients are asked to cover, as it is related to the use of their secure payment service. This fee only applies to online deposits—the remaining balance can be paid in cash (USD or PEN) in Cusco with no additional fees.
Enhance your adventure in Peru with any of these tour extensions:
You can rent or add extra items to your trip for more comfort:
Personalize your experience with the following add-ons:
Once your booking is confirmed, the price is 100% guaranteed.
No changes or increases will apply, regardless of circumstances.
Before booking, we recommend reading all the important tour information to be fully informed.
The Inca Trail 1 Day to Machu Picchu is the perfect adventure for travelers with limited time who still want to experience one of the most legendary hikes in the world. This short version of the Classic Inca Trail starts at KM 104 and takes you through stunning cloud forests, ancient ruins like Wiñay Wayna, and ends with a spectacular entrance to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — all in a single, unforgettable day.
This hike combines breathtaking scenery, rich Inca history, and expert guidance from the Tunqui Expeditions team. Unlike the longer version, there’s no camping — making it an ideal choice for those looking for a rewarding, one-day hike to Machu Picchu with all the comforts included. Whether you’re short on time or simply prefer a faster-paced journey, the 1 Day Inca Trail is a unique way to experience the magic of the Andes and the ancient Inca civilization.
Your adventure begins before sunrise, with a hotel pickup in Cusco and a scenic drive to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board one of the first trains bound for KM 104 — the official start of your 1 Day Inca Trail hike. As you step onto this ancient path, you’ll feel the spirit of the Incas and the thrill of walking where history lives.
The trail leads you through lush cloud forest, past waterfalls, and to one of the most remarkable archaeological sites on the route: Wiñay Wayna. Here, amidst breathtaking views and centuries-old terraces, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared lunch by our professional chef, exclusive to Tunqui Expeditions. This gourmet stop in nature adds comfort and flavor to your once-in-a-lifetime experience.
After lunch, you’ll continue the ascent toward the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, framed by afternoon light and surrounding peaks. It’s a moment that will stay with you forever.
Upon arrival at the citadel, you’ll follow Circuit 1, offering a guided tour through the most photogenic and historic parts of Machu Picchu, including temples, terraces, and sacred stonework.
As the day winds down, take a short bus ride to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll relax before boarding your train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to Cusco. Arrival is expected around 9:30 PM, bringing a perfect end to a powerful day of discovery.
Don’t miss your chance to walk part of the legendary Inca Trail in just one day!
Book your Inca Trail 1 Day tour with Tunqui Expeditions and create memories that last forever. Limited permits available – reserve your spot now!
Begin your adventure with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 am. From there, we drive to Ollantaytambo to board the Expedition train to KM 104, the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail.
The hike begins at Chachabamba, an Inca archaeological site nestled in the cloud forest. Continue along the ancient trail to reach the impressive ruins of Wiñay Wayna, where you’ll stop to enjoy a scenic picnic lunch.
As you approach Inti Punku (Sun Gate), you’ll be rewarded with your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, just as the Incas once experienced it. Upon arrival, explore the citadel via Circuit 1, ideal for breathtaking vistas and photographs.
After the guided visit, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll board the return train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer back to your hotel in Cusco. Arrival time is approximately 9:30 pm.
The Inca Trail is part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the ancient Andean road network, and lies within the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, a protected natural and cultural reserve managed by SERNANP. Trekking this trail means stepping into a world of archaeological richness and ecological diversity.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we promote sustainable tourism and follow all conservation guidelines established for this UNESCO World Heritage site. As you hike, your guide will share the stories, culture, and natural significance of this sacred landscape, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru to be as memorable and stress-free as possible. Here you’ll find answers to all your most common questions in one place. Please read the following information carefully—it will help you understand our services better and ensure a smooth experience.
Have a question we haven’t answered here?
Feel free to contact us, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
It’s very important to be well-acclimatized to the altitude before starting any trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your trek begins to allow your body to adjust and avoid altitude sickness.
If you’ve already been to another high-altitude area in Peru before Cusco, we still suggest spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recover from travel, and enjoy the sights before starting your trek.
Suggested activities before your trek:
All pre-trek briefings are held at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 5:00 PM the night before your trek. The briefing lasts approximately 30–45 minutes.
If you can’t attend, please coordinate another time via email, phone, or by visiting our office.
If you have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least 2 days before your trek. Otherwise, your reservation may not be confirmed.
We greatly appreciate if you can pay the balance in cash (USD or Peruvian soles) at our Cusco office. ATMs along Avenida El Sol dispense both currencies. You can also pay via credit/debit card or PayPal (online or in person), but note that a 5% service fee applies via Niubiz or PayPal.
We do not accept checks or traveler’s checks.
You’ll receive a duffel bag during your pre-trek briefing. Porters will carry it along the trail and deliver it to your camp.
Size: 60 x 24 x 22 cm / 23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in
Maximum weight: 7 kg / 15.4 lbs, including sleeping bag, pad, clothing, and personal items.
Absolutely!
You can store your main luggage safely at our office or your hotel (most hotels offer luggage storage) at no additional cost.
However, please do not store valuables in your suitcase. Keep items like credit cards, electronics, and passports in your hotel safe. Request a detailed receipt, as insurance companies may require proof of value in case of loss.
For added security, seal valuables (like credit cards) in a signed envelope before storing them.
Tunqui Expeditions offers hotel pick-up within the Historic Center of Cusco.
Your guide will confirm your pick-up time during the briefing. Please note that pick-up time may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.
Cusco is a historic city with narrow, cobblestone streets. Some hotels or Airbnbs are located on steep hills or pedestrian-only streets, which may make luggage transfers difficult.
We highly recommend choosing accommodation with easy vehicle access.
Group tours bring together people from different backgrounds, ages, and fitness levels.
By joining a group, you agree that some hikers may be faster or slower than others, and everyone is encouraged to hike at their own pace.
If the group wishes to modify the itinerary, the guide will decide, in consultation with the group, whether the change is feasible.
The return from Machu Picchu requires some logistics, but don’t worry—we handle everything!
Strikes and protests are relatively common in Peru and may disrupt transportation or tours.
Roads and train tracks can be blocked. We always try to maintain your itinerary as planned, even if it means departing the night before.
In extreme cases, tours may be canceled. If changes or cancellations are necessary, our Operations Team will coordinate with you directly.
Your safety is our top priority, and we will make decisions accordingly.
Please take care of your belongings during the trip.
You are responsible for your personal items at all times—whether in transport, tents, or restaurants.
Double-check your space before leaving any area to ensure you haven’t left anything behind.
Here’s a complete list of what to bring for your 1-day Inca Trail adventure. Keep in mind that weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for both sun and rain, cold and heat.
Available year-round, from January to December
We operate this itinerary every day of the week, all year long. This is a guaranteed small-group tour with departures starting from only 2 people.
Note: PayPal charges a 5% transaction fee that clients are asked to cover, as it is related to the use of their secure payment service. This fee only applies to online deposits—the remaining balance can be paid in cash (USD or PEN) in Cusco with no additional fees.
Enhance your adventure in Peru with any of these tour extensions:
You can rent or add extra items to your trip for more comfort:
Personalize your experience with the following add-ons:
Once your booking is confirmed, the price is 100% guaranteed.
No changes or increases will apply, regardless of circumstances.
Before booking, we recommend reading all the important tour information to be fully informed.
